The Nru Federated Town Union in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State has taken decisive steps to curb the growing misconduct of the Oriokpa masquerades, which have recently attracted widespread criticism for their unruly behavior. This decision followed a stakeholders’ meeting aimed at restoring order and discipline within the community. A statement released after the gathering, and shared with THE WHISTLER on Tuesday, confirmed that a special committee will be formed to monitor and regulate the activities of these masquerades, especially during festive periods.

Community leaders expressed concern over the increasing notoriety of the Oriokpa masquerades, whose aggressive conduct has reportedly tarnished the reputation of Nsukka land. The yet-to-be-formed committee is expected to collaborate with the Nsukka Local Government authorities to draft clear guidelines and enforceable measures that will govern the masquerades’ operations to prevent further public disturbances.

In addition to the masquerade issue, the meeting also addressed concerns over the inappropriate use of public roads for spiritual sacrifices. The President General of the Nru community, Hon. Cyprian Ugwuaku, condemned the act of littering roads with fetish items and directed that such sacrificial practices be limited to designated locations. He also announced that all native doctors operating within Nru must now undergo registration and profiling through their respective town unions and eldest elders, known as “Onyishis,” to ensure accountability.

The meeting was attended by key stakeholders including the two councillors representing Owere-Umuoyo and Nru wards—Hon. Ajako Asadu and Hon. Daniel Ugwu—village elders, community members, and native doctors.

The action comes in response to growing public concern, especially following a recent incident in which three Oriokpa masquerades were arrested and detained at the Nigerian Correctional Centre in Enugu for assaulting a middle-aged man. The town union’s new measures aim to prevent such abuses and restore peace and respect for cultural traditions within Nru.